Parker The Bear — Connecting Kids To The Blue Ridge Parkway
Parker the Bear, the Bear That Shares - trademarked
My earliest memory of giving for a cause was as a sixth grader when I collected nickels, dimes, and pennies to save the USS North Carolina battleship from the scrap yard. The Save Our Ship campaign was conceived by Governor Terry Sanford and led by campaign chair, Hugh Morton. Over 700,000 children participated, demonstrating one of the most marvelous aspects of this campaign — the many small, heartfelt contributions of thousands school children adding up to save something so large.
Their contribution established a perceived “ownership” of the Battleship. No matter that the donations were small — a nickel, a dime, a penny — those youngsters in 1961, who are adults today, feel “ownership”. And that ownership translates into long term stewardship. When I return to Wilmington and see the great ship secured at its berth, I experience a surge of pride, although it is forty-seven years later. I would give again.
The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation wants to build the same kind of loving attachment for our national park. Parker the Bear introduces children to the wonder of nature and teaches children about park stewardship. A bear bank that is mission based; Parker’s purpose is to build a lifelong connection to the Blue Ridge Parkway. And, the Parkway needs the love. Long term budget constraints have made their mark. And without intervention, parts of the Parkway may eventually have to close.
This great national park site could be helped by a child’s investment of nickels, dimes, and pennies. And, when they “Journey” there 47 years from now, they will experience the thrill of being a part of something grand built upon generosity that came from the heart. Save the Journey.
